Entitled 'Sport Matters: The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, 2009-2019', the Strategy outlines a new vision for sport and physical recreation in Northern Ireland. It also establishes key targets and priorities for sport’s future development as identified by the sports sector, the community at large and a range of other interests across central and local government, the voluntary sector and business.
Speaking at the launch of the Strategy, which was developed by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in partnership with Sport Northern Ireland, Minister McCausland said: "Sport is an integral part of Northern Ireland’s culture and identity. It is important to all sections of our community. It also has the potential to make a significant contribution to personal development, education, health, the economy and the development of communities.
"However, Northern Ireland sport today faces major challenges and significant difficulties particularly in terms of participation, high performance and the quantity and quality of existing infrastructure. There needs to be a new long term vision and direction for sport, so that we secure all the potential benefits it offers society and the individual. Sport Matters offers that vision and that direction."
The Minister added that he was committed to providing the leadership needed to deliver on the targets and commitments within Sport Matters. He said: "I want not simply to preserve our sporting culture, but to cultivate it and strengthen it now and for the future. In short, I want Northern Ireland to realise the vision of Sport Matters – a culture of lifelong enjoyment and success in sport."
Dominic Walsh, Chair of Sport Northern Ireland added: "While the Strategy outlines many of the arguments as to why sport is so important, we also look to the broader value and see that sport provides us with inspirational and invaluable moments. This is particularly relevant with the approach of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the World Police and Fire Games 2013 being hosted here in Northern Ireland, and the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. All of the events are bringing sport right to our doorstep.
"I particularly endorse the increased prominence given to our sporting volunteers and, thanks to their dedication, our experience of sport and physical recreation is greatly enriched. Overall, the Strategy will enable sport to modernise our systems and structures for continued effective delivery and enjoyment by all."
Notes to editors:
1. View the Sport Matters webpage.
2. The Sport Matters Monitoring Group will oversee the delivery of the Strategy. The group which met for the first time today comprises of representatives from DCAL, Sport Northern Ireland, Department of Education, Department of Social Development, Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, and the Northern Ireland Sports Forum.
3. For media enquiries please contact DCAL Communications Office 028 9051 5048. Out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
